[Herpetology • 2024] Panaspis ericae & P. mundavambo • A Treasure Trove of Endemics: Two New Species of Snake-eyed Skinks of the Genus Panaspis Cope, 1868 (Squamata: Scincidae) from the Serra da Neve Inselberg, southwestern Angola

 Panaspis ericae  

 Marques, Parrinha, Lopes-Lima, Tiutenko, Bauer & Ceríaco, 2024

   DOI: 10.3897/evolsyst.8.121103

photos by Arthur Tiutenko.

 Abstract

Four species of the genus Panaspis – P. cabindae, P. wahlbergii, P. maculicollis and P. mocamedensis – are currently known from Angola. The analysis of recently collected specimens from Serra da Neve Inselberg, an isolated mountain located in northern Namibe Province, revealed unexpected taxonomic diversity in the group. Using an integrative taxonomy approach based on morphological and DNA sequence data, with both mitochondrial (16S) and nuclear (RAG-1) genes, we were able to distinguish two distinct populations, described here as two new species, Panaspis ericae sp. nov. and P. mundavambo sp. nov. Both species are assumed to be endemic to the inselberg. This reinforces our notion of southwestern Angola as a hotspot of skink diversity, and highlights the urgent need for the conservation of Serra da Neve.

Key Words: Reptiles, integrative taxonomy, Africa, herpetofauna, cryptic species

Live photos of Panaspis ericae sp. nov. 
the holotype (MUNHAC/MB03-001525) from vicinity of Catchi, Serra da Neve.  
 the paratype (MUNHAC/MB03-001531) from vicinity of Maylowe, Serra da Neve.

photos by Arthur Tiutenko.

 Panaspis ericae sp. nov.

Etymology: The specific epithet “ericae” is formed in the genitive singular and is feminine. It is given in honor of Erica Tavares (1997–), an Angolan biologist and conservationist. Through her work in the Angolan environmental platform “Eco Angola” (of which Erica is a co-founder), Erica has revolutionized the Angolan conservation and ecological discourse, providing opportunities for members of the Angolan civil society, students, and young researchers to learn, debate and contribute to environmental causes. We suggest “Erica’s Snake-Eyed Skink” and “Lagartixa da Manta-Morta de Erica” as the English and Portuguese common names, respectively, for this species.

 Panaspis mundavambo sp. nov.

Etymology: The specific epithet “mundavambo” refers to the Mukwando (local tribe) name for Serra da Neve Inselberg (Opunda Mundavambo), to which the species is endemic, and is applied here as a substantive in apposition. We propose the English vernacular name “Serra da Neve Snake-Eyed Skink” and the Portuguese vernacular name of “Lagartixa da Manta-Morta da Serra da Neve”.

 

Mariana P. Marques, Diogo Parrinha, Manuel Lopes-Lima, Arthur Tiutenko, Aaron M. Bauer and Luis M. P. Ceríaco. 2024. A Treasure Trove of Endemics: Two New Species of Snake-eyed Skinks of the Genus Panaspis Cope, 1868 (Squamata, Scincidae) from the Serra da Neve Inselberg, southwestern Angola. Evolutionary Systematics. 8(2): 167-182. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/evolsyst.8.121103

[Herpetology • 2024] Limnonectes cassiopeia • A Long Overlooked New Species of Fanged Frog, Genus Limnonectes (Anura: Dicroglossidae), from Luzon Island, Northern Philippines

Red circles on the map represent genetic sampling localities for Limnonectes cassiopeia, new species, blue diamonds represent genetic sampling for L. macrocephalus, and gray triangles represent genetic samples of L. woodworthi. 

Herr, Som & Brown, 2024

DOI: 10.1643/h2022094 

 x.com/IchsAndHerps

Abstract

We describe a new species of fanged frog (genus Limnonectes) from the foothills of two, inland, south-to-north oriented, parallel mountain ranges of Luzon Island of the northern Philippines. Although the new species broadly co-occurs with its closest relative at numerous localities within the Luzon Pleistocene aggregate island complex faunal region, it can be readily diagnosed from Limnonectes macrocephalus based on its unpigmented (white) ventral surfaces of terminal digital discs, its unexpanded or minimally expanded terminal digital discs, and an allometric growth pattern indicating evidence of sexual dimorphism at a smaller overall body size. The new species, which can also be identified by its divergent 16S ribosomal RNA mitochondrial gene sequence, possesses a curious distribution unlike the range of any Philippine endemic amphibian characterized to date: it is known from nine interior (inland) localities distributed between the two, parallel, south-to-north mountain chains (the Cordillera and Sierra Madre) which characterize mainland Luzon. We interpret the presence of two broadly sympatric, genetically divergent, strongly supported haplotype clades—which correspond to morphologically diagnosable phenotypes, using traditional discrete characters and allometric growth patterns—as prima facia evidence of two, independently evolving evolutionary lineages (species) of giant fanged frogs on Luzon. The description of another new species of large-bodied fanged frog on Luzon from multiple localities in close proximity to the capital city (Manila) emphasizes the degree to which even well-studied larger Philippine landmasses possess unrecognized and overlooked biodiversity.

 

Map of sampling locations on Luzon Island, Philippines (right) and ML phylogenetic tree (left). Red circles on the map represent genetic sampling localities for Limnonectes cassiopeia, new species, blue diamonds represent genetic sampling for L. macrocephalus, and gray triangles represent genetic samples of L. woodworthi. Maximum likelihood tree topology estimated in IQ-TREE. Only the Limnonectes clade E (sensu Evans et al., 2003) subtree is shown here (see inset; outgroups not shown: L. finchi, L. parvus, L. micrixalus, L. palavanensis, L. leytensis, L. acanthi, and L. beloncioi). ...

Limnonectes cassiopeia, new species 

 Cassiopeia Fanged Frog

Etymology.—We derive the specific epithet, used as a modern simple noun in apposition in the nominative case, from the name collectively given to the five stars of the constellation Cassiopeia—used in reference to the species’ five bright, ventrally unpigmented, cream to white toe disks (the principal diagnostic character state difference distinguishing it from Limnonectes macrocephalus). In the Philippines, the constellation Cassiopeia is most visible in clear night skies over central and northern Luzon in an area encompassing the known distribution of the new species. Suggested common name: Cassiopeia Fanged Frog.

Mark W. Herr, Hannah E. Som and Rafe M. Brown. 2024. A Long Overlooked New Species of Fanged Frog, Genus Limnonectes (Amphibia: Anura: Dicroglossidae), from Luzon Island, Northern Philippines.  Ichthyology & Herpetology. 112(2); 270-294. DOI: doi.org/10.1643/h2022094

  x.com/IchsAndHerps/status/1816132938322399264

[Herpetology • 2024] Xenophrys yingjiangensis • A Field Survey on the Genus Xenophrys (Anura: Megophryidae) confirms underestimated diversity in the Gaoligong Mountains, with the description of A New Species

 Xenophrys yingjiangensis Wu, Yu, Chen & Che, 

 in Wu, Yu, Chen, Kilunda, Zhang, Zuo, Zuo, Duan et Che, 2024. 

DOI: 10.3897/zse.100.127635

Abstract

The Gaoligong Mountains, located in the western part of China’s Yunnan Province adjoining northern Myanmar, harbor a striking diversity of species and endemism. Previous studies have shown that amphibian diversity in this region remains underestimated. A field survey carried out in 2023 oversaw a collection of eight Xenophrys specimens from the Tongbiguan Provincial Nature Reserve, Yunnan Province, China. Subsequent molecular analyses revealed two distinct and previously undescribed lineages. Based on morphological evidence, we formally describe one of the lineages as a new species and tentatively assign the other lineage to X. sp. due to the absence of adult specimens for examination. Our results bring the total number of Xenophrys species to 29 and the number of Xenophrys species known to occur in China to 11. Furthermore, our study reveals that five species and putative species of Xenophrys (X. dehongensis, X. glandulosa, X. periosa, X. yingjiangensis sp. nov., and X. sp.) exhibit sympatric distribution. These findings highlight the need for future research to investigate the mechanisms of sympatric coexistence in Xenophrys. In addition, our study confirms that the amphibian diversity of the Gaoligong Mountains is undoubtedly underestimated. As a result, continued exploration of amphibians in the future is necessary to obtain a clearer understanding of the overall biodiversity in this region.

Key Words: Biodiversity, cryptic species, frog, sympatric distribution, Tongbiguan Provincial Nature Reserve, Xenophrys yingjiangensis sp. nov.

 Xenophrys yingjiangensis Wu, Yu, Chen & Che, sp. nov.
Views of the Holotype KIZ 053848 in life. A. Lateral view; B. Lateral view of head; C. Dorsal view of hindlimbs; D. Ventral view; E. Ventral view of hand, and F. Ventral view of foot.

 Photos by Zhong-Bin Yu.

 Xenophrys yingjiangensis Wu, Yu, Chen & Che, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis: Xenophrys yingjiangensis sp. nov. differs from its congeners by a combination of the following morphological characters: (1) medium adult size, adult male SVL 44.6–49.8 mm (N=5); (2) head slightly longer than wide; (3) tympanum distinct, narrow anteriorly, slightly widening posteriorly; (4) pupil vertically elliptical; (5) vomerine ridges and vomerine teeth present; (6) tongue large, oval-shaped, feebly notched posteriorly; (7) relative finger lengths: II < IV < I < III; (8) the heels slightly overlapping when the tibias are positioned at right angles to the body axis; (9) tibio-tarsal articulation of straightened limb reaching the nostril; (10) lateral dermal fringes on toes distinct, narrow; (11) toes with rudimentary webbing; (12) inner metatarsal tubercle large, elongate; (13) a distinct narrow ‘\ /’-shaped parietoscapular ridge present; (14) flesh pink ventral surface of thighs.

Etymology: The specific epithet “yingjiang” is a Latinized adjective derived from the name of Yingjiang County, Yunnan Province, China, where the new species occurs. We propose the English common name “Yingjiang horned toad” and the Chinese common name “Yíng Jiāng Jiǎo Chán (盈江角蟾)”.

 

 Yun-He Wu, Zhong-Bin Yu, Jin-Min Chen, Felista Kasyoka Kilunda, Ding-Can Zhang, Chang-Sheng Zuo, An-Ru Zuo, Zheng-Pan Duan and Jing Che. 2024. A Field Survey on the Genus Xenophrys (Amphibia, Megophryidae) confirms underestimated diversity in the Gaoligong Mountains, with the description of A New Species. Zoosystematics and Evolution. 100(3): 1041-1052. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.100.127635

[Botany • 2024] Peliosanthes meghalayensis (Asparagaceae) • A New Species from Meghalaya, NE India

Peliosanthes meghalayensis D.Borah & N.Tanaka,

in Borah et Tanaka, 2024. 

DOI: 10.1016/j.flora.2024.152569 

 facebook.com/DipuBorah2

 

Highlights

• Peliosanthes meghalayensis, a new species from Wari Chora gorge in Meghalaya, NE India, described and illustrated.

• Similar to P. pumila from Khasia, NE India, but differs chiefly by knobby rhizome, broader leaf blades, closer transversal veinlets, slightly larger cernuous flowers, and pistils with 6 distinct ridges.

• P. subspicata, a rare plant is rediscovered in Assam, NE India, known only by old collections made in NE India and Bangladesh in the 19th century.

• Supplemental description and illustration based on living collections provided.

• P. bipiniana treated as conspecific with P. subspicata.

Abstract

Peliosanthes meghalayensis, a new species from Wari Chora gorge in Meghalaya, NE India, is described and illustrated. It is similar to P. pumila from Khasia, NE India, in its small habit and having flowers fewer than 10, but differs chiefly by the knobby rhizome, broader leaf blades with closer transversal veinlets, slightly larger cernuous flowers, and pistils with 6 distinct ridges. On the other hand, in Assam, NE India, we rediscovered P. subspicata, which had been known only by old collections made in NE India and Bangladesh in the 19th century. We supplementarily describe and illustrate it based on living collections. We treated P. bipiniana as conspecific with P. subspicata.

 

Keywords: Peliosanthes, Northeast India, New species, Taxonomy, Morphology, Synonymy

 Peliosanthes meghalayensis D.Borah & N.Tanaka, sp. nov.

Dipankar Borah and Noriyuki Tanaka. 2024. Peliosanthes meghalayensis (Asparagaceae), A New Species from Meghalaya, NE India, and synonymization of P. bipiniana with P. subspicata. Flora. 317, 152569. DOI: doi.org/10.1016/j.flora.2024.152569

  facebook.com/DipuBorah2/posts/7898976000194870

[Botany • 2024] Catasetum queirozii (Orchidaceae: Catasetinae) • A New Species from the Brazilian Amazon

Catasetum queirozii  D.R.P.Krahl, Krahl, Cantuária & J.B.F.Silva, 

in D.R.P. Krahl, Schmal, Chiron, Silva, A.H. Krahl et Cantuária, 2024.

DOI: 10.1590/1809-4392202301801 

  Researchgate.net/publication/377256790

 

ABSTRACT

This study presents a new orchid species of the genus Catasetum belonging to the group of species with symmetrical and parallel antennae. It was found in terra-firme and floodplain forests in the Brazilian states of Amazonas and Pará. We provide a formal description of the new species, images, and notes on distribution, habitat, phenology, flower visitors and preliminary conservation status. We compare it with C. cristatum and C. barbatum, both sympatric and morphologically most similar to the new species. It was preliminarily classified in the Endangered (EN) category according to IUCN criteria based on the extent of occurrence, area of occupation, number of occurrence locations and the risks that the known populations are exposed to (deforestation and predatory collection).

KEYWORDS: Amazonas; dense ombrophilous forest; epiphyte; orchids; Pará; taxonomy

  Catasetum queirozii sp. nov.
A - habit; B - flower in front and side view; C - floral bracts; D - perianth; E - lip in front view; F - lip in lateral view; G - column in ventral and lateral view; H - anther cap and pollinarium.

Credit: A.H. Krahl.

Catasetum queirozii D.R.P.Krahl, Krahl, Cantuária & J.B.F.Silva, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis: Catasetum queirozii is similar to C. cristatum and C. barbatum, however it differs in its petals with a narrowly elliptical shape and a narrower lip, entire, oblong with a sparsely ciliated margin, with a globular concentration of fimbriae of thick consistency at the apex and the glabrous proximal surface.

Etymology: The specific epithet is given in honor to the agronomist, orchidist and orchid enthusiast Sérgio Alberto Queiroz Costa who has been developing an admirable research work on orchids in the Amazon. He was also the first to call our attention to the true identity of the taxon proposed in this paper.

Dayse Raiane Passos KRAHL, Philippe SCHMAL, Guy CHIRON, João Batista Fernandes da SILVA, Amauri Herbert KRAHL and Patrick de Castro CANTUÁRIA. 2024. Catasetum queirozii (Orchidaceae: Catasetinae): A New Species from the Brazilian Amazon. Acta Amazonica. 54(1) DOI: doi.org/10.1590/1809-4392202301801 

  Researchgate.net/publication/377256790_Catasetum_queirozii_a_new_species_from_the_Brazilian_Amazon

Catasetum queirozii (Orchidaceae: Catasetinae): uma nova espécie da Amazônia brasileira

RESUMO: Este estudo apresenta uma nova espécie de orquídea do gênero Catasetum, do grupo de espécies cujas antenas são simétricas e paralelas. Foi encontrada em florestas de terra-firme e igapó nos estados do Amazonas e Pará, Brasil. Fornecemos uma descrição formal da nova espécie, imagens e comentários referentes à distribuição, habitat, fenologia, visitantes florais e estatus de conservação. A comparamos com C. cristatum e C. barbatum, que ocorrem em simpatria e são morfologicamente mais semelhantes à nova espécie. Ela foi preliminarmente classificada na categoria Em Perigo (EN) segundo os critérios da UICN, com base na extensão de ocorrência, área de ocupação, número de localidades de ocorrência e os riscos a que as populações conhecidas estão expostas (desmatamento e coleta predatória).

PALAVRAS-CHAVE: Amazonas; floresta ombrófila densa; epífita; orquídeas; Pará; taxonomia

[Paleontology • 2024] Jurassic Fossil Juvenile reveals prolonged Life History in early Mammals

in Panciroli, Benson, Fernandez, Fraser, Humpage, Luo, Newham et Walsh, 2024.

DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07733-1 

 x.com/gsciencelady

Abstract

Living mammal groups exhibit rapid juvenile growth with a cessation of growth in adulthood. Understanding the emergence of this pattern in the earliest mammaliaforms (mammals and their closest extinct relatives) is hindered by a paucity of fossils representing juvenile individuals. We report exceptionally complete juvenile and adult specimens of the Middle Jurassic docodontan Krusatodon, providing anatomical data and insights into the life history of early diverging mammaliaforms. We used synchrotron X-ray micro-computed tomography imaging of cementum growth increments in the teeth to provide evidence of pace of life in a Mesozoic mammaliaform. The adult was about 7 years and the juvenile 7 to 24 months of age at death and in the process of replacing its deciduous dentition with its final, adult generation. When analysed against a dataset of life history parameters for extant mammals5, the relative sequence of adult tooth eruption was already established in Krusatodon and in the range observed in extant mammals but this development was prolonged, taking place during a longer period as part of a significantly longer maximum lifespan than extant mammals of comparable adult body mass (156 g or less). Our findings suggest that early diverging mammaliaforms did not experience the same life histories as extant small-bodied mammals and the fundamental shift to faster growth over a shorter lifespan may not have taken place in mammaliaforms until during or after the Middle Jurassic.

Krusatodon 

 

Elsa Panciroli, Roger B. J. Benson, Vincent Fernandez, Nicholas C. Fraser, Matt Humpage, Zhe-Xi Luo, Elis Newham and Stig Walsh. 2024. Jurassic Fossil Juvenile reveals prolonged Life History in early Mammals. Nature. DOI: doi.org/10.1038/s41586-024-07733-1

  x.com/gsciencelady/status/1816127777407385636

[Entomology • 2020] Aenetus maiasinus, A. trigonogrammus, etc. • Four New Species of Splendid Ghost Moths (Lepidoptera: Hepialidae: Aenetus) from Australia and Papua New Guinea

Aenetus simonseni Beaver & Moore,  A. trigonogrammus Beaver & Moore,    

 A. maiasinus Beaver & Moore,  A. albadamanteum Beaver & Grehan,

in Beaver, Moore, Grehan, Velasco-Castrillón et Stevens, 2020. 

 DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4809.3.2

 Researchgate.net/publication/342786018

 x.com/ento_ethan 

 

Abstract

Four new Aenetus Herrich-Schäffer species are described from northern Australasia; Aenetus simonseni sp. nov. from the top-end of the Northern Territory, Australia, A. maiasinus sp. nov. from the Kimberley region of Western Australia, A. trigonogrammus sp. nov. from south-eastern Queensland, Australia, and A. albadamanteum sp. nov. from eastern Papua New Guinea. Aenetus simonseni sp. nov. and A. maiasinus sp. nov. appear to belong to the tegulatus-group of species (sensu Grehan et al. 2018), A. trigonogrammus sp. nov. is part of the splendens-group of species (sensu Simonsen 2018), while A. albadamanteum sp. nov. shares morphological similarities with A. hampsoni (Joicey & Noakes, 1914), A. crameri Viette, 1956, and A. toxopeusi Viette, 1956, from New Guinea, and A. cohici Viette, 1961 from New Caledonia. The four new species are illustrated and compared with superficially similar species in morphology and, for two species, molecular (mtDNA COI gene) sequences.

Lepidoptera, Aenetus albadamanteum, Aenetus maiasinus, Aenetus simonseni, Aenetus trigonogrammus, Australasia, biogeography, COI, DNA Barcodes, taxonomy

Ethan P. Beaver, Michael D. Moore, John R. Grehan, Alejandro Velasco-Castrillón and Mark I. Stevens. 2024. Four New Species of Splendid Ghost Moths (Lepidoptera: Hepialidae: Aenetus) from Australia and Papua New Guinea.  Zootaxa. 4809(3); 449–474. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.4809.3.2

 x.com/ento_ethan/status/1281152409134235648 

 Researchgate.net/publication/342786018_Four_new_species_of_Aenetus_from_Australia_and_Papua_New_Guinea

[Ichthyology • 2024] Hypostomus cari • Integrative taxonomy clarifies the armoured catfish Hypostomus pusarum (Starks) species complex (Siluriformes: Loricariidae) and reveals A New Species in the drainages of Northeastern Brazil

Hypostomus cari

Lustosa-Costa, Ramos, Zawadzki, Jacobina & Lima, 2024

  DOI:  10.1093/zoolinnean/zlae059

  x.com/ZoolJLinnSoc

 

Abstract

Hypostomus is the most species-rich genus within the family Loricariidae and is widely distributed throughout the Neotropical region. Nonetheless, the diversity and distribution of these species have still large knowledge gaps. This scenario is more significant in some regions, such as the northeast of Brazil. In this region, the first species of the genus, H. pusarum, was described in the Northeast Caatinga and Costal Drainages ecoregion. Six congeners were subsequently described in the same ecoregion, all sharing the same colour pattern making them difficult to distinguish. All of them are collectively referred to as the H. pusarum complex. The present work seeks to clarify the diversity that constitutes the H. pusarum complex through an integrative study using molecular and morphological data. The results indicate that H. carvalhoi, H. jaguribensis, H. nudiventris, H. papariae, and H. salgadae are all junior synonyms of H. pusarum. However, one of the morphotypes that occurs in the Parnaíba River is a new species that differs from the others by the absence of a developed medial buccal papilla and the presence of a pre-anal plate. The data provided here highlight the importance of integrative taxonomy for assessing diversity in complex and diverse groups in the Neotropics.

cascudos, DNA barcode, Neotropical fish, new species, Parnaíba River

Hypostomus cari sp. nov.

Silvia Yasmin Lustosa-Costa, Telton Pedro Anselmo Ramos, Cláudio Henrique Zawadzki, Uedson Pereira Jacobina and Sergio Maia Queiroz Lima. 2024. Integrative taxonomy clarifies the armoured catfish Hypostomus pusarum (Starks) species complex (Siluriformes: Loricariidae) and reveals A New Species in the drainages of Northeastern Brazil. Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society. 201(3); zlae059, DOI:  doi.org/10.1093/zoolinnean/zlae059

  x.com/ZoolJLinnSoc/status/1813166947200102676

[Entomology • 2020] Bulasconotus scaccarius • A New Species of cylindrical Bark Beetle (Coleoptera: Zopheridae: Colydiinae) from Vanuatu establishes in Hawaii

Bulasconotus scaccarius 

Bernard & Gillett, 2020

DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4809.3.12 

 Researchgate.net/publication/342762932

Abstract

We describe Bulasconotus scaccarius sp. nov., a new species of cylindrical bark beetle (Zopheridae: Colydiinae: Synchitini), elevating the number of described species in its genus to two. Despite discovering this species in Hawaii, we suspect, based on collections and survey data, that it is endemic to the South Pacific archipelago of Vanuatu and has only recently arrived in Hawaii. Evidence of the diet of closely related genera indicates that the new species may be a predator of ambrosia beetles (Curculionidae: Scolytinae), conceivably posing a risk to those that are endemic to Hawaii.

Keywords: Coleoptera, Colydiidae, invasive species, Melanesia, New Hebrides, Oahu, Tenebrionoidea

 Micrograph of Bulasconotus scaccarius sp. nov. collected by Josef and Marie Sedlacek on Vanuatu's Malekula Island in 1967, depicting coloration of A) dorsal and B) ventral aspects.

Scale bars: 1 mm.

 Known locations of Bulasconotus scaccarius sp. nov. in A) the Vanuatu archipelago, scale bar: 100 km; and B) Oahu in the Hawaiian archipelago, scale bar: 50 km. C) Living B. scaccarius sp. nov. among entrance tunnels and frass of Hawaiian ambrosia beetles (Xyleborus lanaiensis) on Hawaiian trees (Planchonella sandwicensis) from the Honouliuli Forest Reserve on Oahu, scale bar: 1 mm.

Bulasconotus scaccarius sp. nov.

Etymology. The specific epithet is the adjective form of the nominative singular noun scaccarium, meaning a chessboard, in reference to the chequered pattern on the elytra. This name thereby conforms to article 11.9.1.1 of the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature. Because the adjective suffix agrees with the masculinity of the generic name, the binomial name also conforms to article 31.2 even though the eponym is neuter.

Jared Bernard, Conrad P. D. T. Gillett. 2020. A New Species of cylindrical Bark Beetle (Zopheridae: Colydiinae) from Vanuatu establishes in Hawaii.  Zootaxa. 4809(3); 593–599. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.4809.3.12

  Researchgate.net/publication/342762932_A_new_species_of_bark_beetle_establishes_in_Hawaii

[Herpetology • 2024] Tropidophorus vongx • A New Species of the Genus Tropidophorus (Reptilia: Scincidae) from China-Vietnam Border Region in Southeastern Yunnan Province, China

Tropidophorus vongx 

Wang, Li, Mu, Xu & Che, 2024

DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5486.1.6 

 Researchgate.net/publication/382491819

 

Abstract

Based on morphological and genetic data, we describe a new species of Tropidophorus from the tropical karst landscape in southeastern Yunnan Province, China, close to the Vietnam border. Phylogenetically, the new species forms a clade with T. baviensis, T. murphyi, and T. hainanus, with p-distances ranging from 4.7–5.1% for the 16S gene and 3.9–6.8% for 12S gene. Morphologically, the new species shares the karst morphotype of Tropidophorus, particularly similar as T. murphyi and T. baviensis, in which all having a dorsally compressed head and body, smooth dorsal head scales, and distinctively keeled body scales. However, the new species can be distinguished from these similar species by numbers of supralabial scales, ventral scales, scales around the tail at the10th subcaudal, and a larger body size. We emphasize the urgency of conservation for the tropical karst landscape in northern Indochina.

Reptilia, cryptic species, conservation, Sphenomorphinae, Vietnam, water skink

Tropidophorus vongx sp. nov. 

Kai Wang, Ling Li, Hao-Nan Mu, Sheng-Jing Xu and Jing Che. 2024. A New Species of the Genus Tropidophorus Duméril, Bibron, 1839 (Reptilia: Squamata: Scincidae) from China-Vietnam Border Region in Southeastern Yunnan Province, China.  Zootaxa. 5486(1); 129-141. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.5486.1.6

  Researchgate.net/publication/382491819_A_New_Species_of_the_Genus_Tropidophorus_from_China-Vietnam_Border

[Botany • 2024] Eriotheca paganuccii (Malvaceae: Bombacoideae) • A New endangered Species from Montane Forests in the Atlantic Forest of Bahia, northeastern Brazil

 

Eriotheca paganuccii Carv.-Sobr., A.C.Mota & Dorr,

in Carvalho-Sobrinho, da Mota et Dorr, 2024. 

DOI: 10.3897/phytokeys.243.125708 

Abstract

A new species of Eriotheca (Bombacoideae, Malvaceae) from montane wet forests in the Atlantic Forest of Bahia, northeastern Brazil, is described and illustrated. It is known from only three populations situated between 750 m and 850 m in elevation on mountain summits and categorized as Endangered (EN) based on IUCN criteria. Eriotheca paganuccii is distinct from all congeners by the combination of coriaceous to strongly coriaceous leaves and remarkable few-seeded, globose to subglobose woody capsules that contain scanty kapok and the largest seeds known in the genus to date. The affinities of E. paganuccii to morphologically similar species as well as the importance of obtaining phenologically complete collections are discussed.

Key words: Bahian southern Atlantic Forest, ‘Bombacaceae’, ‘embiruçú’, endemism, plant taxonomy

Eriotheca paganuccii
A vegetative branch from the top of the tree canopy B details of a leaflet also from the top of the tree canopy C leafless branch with umbelliform cymes D flower bud (note the glands on receptacle) E flower at anthesis (note the unilaterally apiculate petals) F staminal tube (detached from the receptacle and slightly pulled up) G gynoecium H globose woody capsules before dehiscence I capsule with one valve detached showing scanty kapok and large seeds J dehisced fruit with marcescent calyx, exposing the columella and remaining kapok after seed dispersal K seeds relative to a fruit valve L angulate, striated seeds; each seed with two plane and one concave sides.

A, B, I–L drawn from J.G. Carvalho-Sobrinho 4040, C–G drawn from J.G. Carvalho-Sobrinho & A.C. Mota 4022.

Habitat and morphological aspects ofEriotheca paganuccii 
A crown of E. paganuccii individuals in the canopy B detail of leaves at the top of the tree canopy showing smaller, more rigid leaves that are comprised of 1–2 leaflets oriented upward C bark of E. paganuccii D leaves with less exposure to the sun that have 5 leaflets, which are larger, less rigid, and patent (not oriented upward) unlike those in the canopy E flower at anthesis F seeds relative to a fruit valve and scanty kapok.

 

Eriotheca paganuccii Carv.-Sobr., A.C.Mota & Dorr, sp. nov.

 

Diagnosis: Similar to Eriotheca obcordata A.Robyns due to its absence of buttresses, obcordate leaflets, oblong to oblanceolate flower buds, oblanceolate petals, and stamens c. 80 in number, but differing in its caducous (vs. often persistent) bracteoles, larger calyces (7 × 7–9 mm vs. 5–5 mm), globose to subglobose (vs. obovoid) capsules, scanty (vs. abundant) kapok, seed number (c. 10 vs. numerous) per fruit, seed size (10–19 mm vs. 5–7 mm) long, and marcescent, lignified calyces that often split into patent lobes (in herbarium collections, at least).

Etymology: The specific epithet honors Luciano Paganucci de Queiroz, a distinguished Brazilian taxonomist who was the first to collect this new species and one of the first to promote and undertake floristic efforts on Serra da Jiboia, Bahia, its type-locality.

Jefferson Carvalho-Sobrinho, Aline C. da Mota, Laurence J. Dorr. 2024. Eriotheca paganuccii (Bombacoideae, Malvaceae), A New endangered Species from Montane Forests in the Atlantic Forest of Bahia, northeastern Brazil. PhytoKeys. 243: 215-230. DOI: 10.3897/phytokeys.243.125708

[Paleontology • 2024] Propterodacylus frankerlae • A pterosaurian connecting link from the Late Jurassic of Germany

 

 Propterodacylus frankerlae

Spindler, 2024

 palaeo-electronica.org 

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ABSTRACT

Based on a unique and extraordinarily preserved complete skeleton, the “Painten pro-pterodactyloid” is formally described and named as Propterodactylus frankerlae, gen. nov., spec. nov. As previously shown, it has a nearly perfect mix of plesiomorphic rhamphorhynchoid-grade, wukongopterid, and derived pterodactyloid traits. Due to its lack of autapomorphies, Propterodactylus is a sufficient intermediate taxon that closes the greatest knowledge gap regarding the evolution of pterosaur morphology. Non-pterodactyloid features include interlocking caudal vertebrae and a functional fifth pedal toe. Derived features such as the nasoantorbital fenestra, a short tail, or initially elongated cervicals and metacarpals appear ancient within the spectrum of Pterodactyloidea. Other early Monofenestrata appear more autapomorphic. However, the late juvenile or subadult status of the described specimen suggests that the rostrum, neck, and extremities might have been even more elongated when fully grown. Despite the otherwise intermediate, transitional osteology, details of dentition types appear mosaic-like in early Monofenestrata. While the remainder of the skeleton of Propterodactylus fits into known evolutionary trends, its dentition implies a significant role of varying dietary adaptation throughout the pterodactyl transition.

Keywords: new genus; new species; Pterosauria; evolution; dentition

 Specimen DMA-JP-2011/006, holotype of Propterodacylus frankerlae, gen. nov., sp. nov.
(A) under daylight condition; (B) under UV (365 nm),

by courtesy of Helmut Tischlinger. Scale bars equal 5 cm.

SYSTEMATIC PALAEONTOLOGY

Order Pterosauria Owen, 1842 (for a rejection of Pterosaurii Kaup, 1834 see Seeley, 1870, 1891)

Clade Monofenestrata Lü, Unwin, Jin, Liu, and Ji, 2010

Propterodactylus gen. nov. 

Remarks. The intermediate status is underlined by a lack of apparent autapomorphies. Tischlinger and Frey (2013) listed several plesiomorphic and apomorphic traits. Similarities with the derived Pterodactyloidea comprise the skull shape and short tail. Plesiomorphies shared with e.g., Wukongopteridae, which preclude Propterodactlyus from Pterodactyloidea, are the functional fifth toe and long caudal zygapophyses. Intermediate conditions apply to the cervical elongation, metacarpal elongation, and reduced fifth toe.

Etymology. The genus name refers to the informal designation as a pro-pterodactyloid in the literature, meaning a supposed forerunner (ancient Greek προ- for “before”) of the iconic Pterodactylus (latinized form of Greek πτερόν plus δάκτυλος for “wing digit”) and at the same time a forerunner of the Pterodactyloidea in general.

 Propterodactylus frankerlae, gen. nov., spec. nov. 

Etymology. The epithet honours Petra Hahn, née Frankerl (1966 - 2019), the wife of Stephan Hahn, who found the specimen in 2011 during the scientific excavation.

Frederik Spindler. 2024. A pterosaurian connecting link from the Late Jurassic of Germany. Palaeontologia Electronica. 27(2):a35. DOI: 10.26879/1366

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 palaeo-electronica.org/content/2024/5213-pterosaurian-connecting-link

[Botany • 2022] Kalanchoe dineshii (Crassulaceae) • A New Species from southern Western Ghats, India

 Kalanchoe dineshii Syam Radh & Nampy, 

in Radh Sasi et Nampy, 2022. 

DOI: doi.org/10.3989/ajbm.2591

  Researchgate.net/publication/367398840

ABSTRACT

A new species of Kalanchoe (Crassulaceae), K. dineshii Syam Radh & Nampy, is described and illustrated. The new species occurs in the Mathikettan Shola National Park in southern Western Ghats, Kerala, India, and it is only known from the Idukki district. It is morphologically most similar to K. bhidei, but distinguished from the latter by its small stature (30-40 cm high), obovate to obtrullate sessile leaves adnate to stem in the basal ¼th, and widely ovate calyx lobes. Information is also given on the distribution, habitat, phenology, and conservation status of the new taxon.

Keywords: Idukki district, Mathikettan Shola National Park, Western Ghats, taxonomy

 

 Kalanchoe dineshii Syam Radh & Nampy, sp. nov.:
 a, stem basally showing leaf scars and new shoots; b, flowering twig; c, leaves adnate to stem in the basal ¼ th ; d, involucral bract; e, floral bract; f, flower; g, calyx lobe; h, corolla lobe showing a caudate apex; i, corolla cut opened; j, gynoecium; k, nectar scale [from: S. Syam Radh & S. Nampy 137816; illustration: S. Syam Radh].

  Kalanchoe dineshii Syam Radh & Nampy, sp. nov.:
 a, flowering branch; b & c, leaves adnate to stem in the basal ¼ th and the undulate to incised margins distally; d, branch of the inflorescence; e, bract; f, flower; g, calyx split opened; h, corolla lobe showing the caudate apex; i, corolla cut opened; j, gynoecium showing the nectar scales at the base; k, carpel; l, stigma; m, nectar scale [from: S. Syam Radh & S. Nampy 137816; photos: S. Syam Radh].

Syam Radh Sasi and Santhosh Nampy. 2022. Kalanchoe dineshii (Crassulaceae), A New Species from southern Western Ghats, India. Anales del Jardín Botánico de Madrid. 79(2); e127. DOI: doi.org/10.3989/ajbm.2591

  Researchgate.net/publication/367398840_Kalanchoe_dineshii_a_new_species_from_southern_Western_Ghats_India